After leading the Astros in several pitching categories in 2012, Harrell struggled mightily last season and was ousted from the starting rotation in July. Considering how talent-starved the team is at that position, it was an understandably difficult campaign for the veteran right-hander. Harrell's 17 losses were second-worst in the majors and he nearly allowed more walks (88) than he recorded strikeouts (89) over 153.2 innings. In theory, he's in the mix for a rotation spot again in spring training, but there is a great deal of uncertainty about Harrell's future role and place in the organization.

2013

A surprise addition to the Astros rotation, Harrell took the ball on April 7 and never looked back. He wound up leading the team in starts (32), wins (11) and innings (193.2). While lacking ace-type stuff, he pitches deep into games and gives the Astros quality innings -- something most of the starters on the team struggled to do last season. This spring, Harrell will not have to battle for a rotation spot – he is all but a lock to return. Do not expect a repeat of the 2012 season, but he should be a safe bet to be a league average innings eater.

2012

Harrell quietly put together a season that has him back on the radar as a back-of-the-rotation type starter, finishing with 12 wins, a 2.63 ERA, 1.255 WHIP and 94 strikeouts in 126.2 innings between his two Triple-A teams. Not bad for a guy obtained from the White Sox on a midseason waiver claim. Harrell really needs more time in the minors to refine his arsenal and work on his control, but the Astros might decide to let him take his lumps at the back of their rotation in 2012.

2011

Harrell made his MLB debut in 2010 after six minor league seasons in the White Sox's organization, and he made a few late-season starts for the injured Freddy Garcia. His low strikeout rate in the minors profiles more as a long-relief guy than a starter, and he could break camp in that role with the Sox with a good spring.

2010

Harrell split his 2009 ticket between Double-A Birmingham and Triple-A Charlotte, serving as a starter in both situations. He only allowed a total of seven home runs in his 146 innings, but his K:BB ratio was an ugly 93:69. The walk rate rose to 5.1 BB/9IP when he was promoted to Charlotte. He may fight for one of the White Sox’s final bullpen spots in spring training, but his MLB debut probably won’t come until later in the season.

2008

Harrell's a groundball machine when he's on but a lack of command will limit him until he can get that under control. He's got time to learn but he'll need to make up for lost time after missing the entire 2007 season with elbow surgery. He was able to participate in the organization's fall program so he'll start the year at Double-A.